Dear friends, it is time to speak out and demand real changes for wages in Macedonia, with a particular focus on the private sector, which is often neglected. The question we ask is: Is there a difference between the private and public sectors? Yes, there is, and that difference is more obvious than ever.
We, who have been fighting for the rights of craftsmen and tradesmen for years – professions that are essential, but also scarce – demand that these issues be treated seriously. These trades are among the most sought-after today, but unfortunately, they are not adequately represented and are not supported by the state.
Key problems that require solutions:
- The gray economy
• Today, every third hairdressing salon is unregistered. Every second mechanic works without a registered business. In all municipalities, from Lipkovo to Gevgelija, hundreds of businesses operate without registration, without fiscal accounts and outside the formal economy.
• This seriously damages the formal private sector, which pays taxes, contributes to the state and faces unfair competition from the informal economy. - State sector work and “black” work after working hours
• Many employees in the administration, after working hours, continue to offer services in the “gray zone” as hairdressers, beauticians, mechanics, carpenters and many other professions. This further worsens the status of the private sector and creates inequality in the market. - Youth exodus and lack of awareness
• Young people are emigrating en masse, tired of empty promises and the lack of real support. How many awareness campaigns for young people have you seen on television? How many real measures have been taken to help young people build a future in their country? - Shortage of workers in the construction sector
• The construction sector today faces a serious shortage of labor. From tilers, plumbers, facade workers, to many other trades related to this industry, all are in short supply. The reason? Low wages, job insecurity and the lack of any support or incentives from the state.
Our demands: - A minimum wage of 700 euros
• This is a necessity, but it must be accompanied by state subsidies for contributions from small and medium-sized enterprises. The government should subsidize 30% of contributions to ease the economic burden on the formal sector. - A tough fight against the shadow economy
• All unregistered businesses should be identified and integrated into the formal economy. Inspections should be strict, fair and comprehensive, without exceptions. - Protection of the private sector from informal competition and intervention by neighboring countries
• Borders are uncontrolled. Products and services from neighboring countries enter illegally and damage our local businesses. - Equality for all sectors
• Trade unions representing workers should broaden their focus to include the craft sector, where over 70,000 small businesses are excluded from representation and support.
Our message:
Hurry up! We are too late and the private sector is collapsing under the weight of empty promises. Only by fighting the shadow economy and supporting regular businesses can we ensure wage increases and prevent youth migration. A minimum wage of 700 euros is only possible with equality and real support for the formal economy.
Come and see the reality up close. Do not close your eyes to injustices. It is time for action!